Things To Do
in Tay

Seasonal farmer’s stands and occasional weekend markets offering produce, preserves, baked goods and local honey. In summer look for pop-up food vendors near the harbours.

Numerous roadside fruit and vegetable stands in spring–fall; perfect for fresh berries, corn and pies.

Residents are polite and expect orderly queues; greet people and say ‘please’ and ‘thank you’ in shops and services.

Many attractive photo spots are on private land—ask permission before entering fields or private driveways and observe posted signs.

Be respectful around Indigenous communities and archaeological sites—ask before photographing people or cultural sites and follow local guidance.

Some locals may ask guests to remove shoes indoors—follow the host’s lead when visiting private homes.

Canada generally follows a 15–20% tipping standard at full-service restaurants; tip bartenders $1–2 per drink or 10–15% on tabs; taxi drivers commonly receive 10–15%. Tips aren’t usually expected at fast-food counters.

Credit and debit cards are widely accepted (chip and PIN); contactless payments (Apple/Google Pay) are common. Smaller roadside stands or markets may only accept cash—carry some Canadian cash for convenience.

Cool, variable weather with warming days and muddy trails early in the season; bird migration is excellent (warblers, waterfowl) and parks green up quickly. Bring layered clothing and waterproof footwear.

Warm to hot days, busy weekends with cottagers and boat traffic on Georgian Bay; excellent for swimming, boating and festivals. Make reservations for accommodations and dining during July–August and pack sun protection.

Crisp, colorful foliage and fewer tourists make it ideal for hikes, photography and harvest events; daytime can be mild while nights turn chilly. Check weather for early frost if camping.

Cold, snowy conditions support ice fishing, snowmobiling and cross-country skiing; some attractions close in winter so check hours and bring appropriate winter gear and winter tires for driving.

Diverse trails along a sandy peninsula, rocky shorelines and mixed forests with viewpoints over Georgian Bay; options range from short walks to longer loop hikes.

Flat, accessible boardwalk trails through marsh habitat ideal for birdwatching and easy walks year-round.

Various coastal paths and beachfront routes near Victoria Harbour and Midland offering shoreline vistas and photography opportunities.

Smaller conservation areas and county-managed trails offer quiet woodland walks, seasonal wildflowers and easy-to-moderate loops suitable for families.

Multi-generational families and farmers form part of the rural backbone, involved in agriculture and local businesses.

A noticeable retiree population attracted by the quiet, scenic environment and access to community amenities.

Commuters to nearby towns and seasonal cottagers who swell the population in summer months.

Nearby Indigenous communities, such as Beausoleil First Nation (Christian Island) and other local Nations, contribute cultural heritage and presence in the region.

Hockey is a regional passion—local rinks host youth leagues, adult leagues and community events throughout winter.

Given Georgian Bay access, sailing, cruising and powerboating are widely popular in summer, with marinas and clubs nearby.

Both recreational and sport fishing (lake fish and freshwater species) are common pastimes on Georgian Bay and inland lakes.

In winter, groomed and local trails make snowmobiling a popular regional activity among residents and visitors.